Head Chef

Head Chef

Location: RAF Museum London, Hendon

Salary: Up to £45,000 per annum

Contract: Permanent, Full time 40 hours, 5 out of 7 days per week

Job Summary

As the Head Chef at the RAF Museum London, you will play a key role within one of the UK's most historic and inspiring aviation attractions, leading and developing the culinary offering across the site. This role will be responsible for all food offerings on site, from the retail visitor café to the conference & events catering operation. Your success will be measured by visitors consistently enjoying the food served across the site, whether dining in the café or attending conferences and events.

Benefits

• A collaborative and inclusive culture, where your ideas are valued and creativity is encouraged.
• 20 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays and national holiday days).
• Excellent pension programme with generous contribution from us.
• Free parking on site.
• Free staff meals whilst on site.
• Access to Compass Group company perks & benefits.
• Perks for Works discounts and promotions.
• Access to training, mentoring and development, with support from our wider Restaurant Associates and Compass Group UK networks.
• On site F&B discounts.

Responsibilities

• Menu Development & Innovation - Create and adapt menus that appeal to a broad visitor base, including family friendly options, dietary requirements, and seasonal specials.
• Operational Excellence - Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with food safety legislation, company policies, and contractual obligations.
• Leadership & Team Development - Recruit, train, and inspire a motivated kitchen team, fostering a positive and professional working culture.
• Cost Control & Profitability - Manage budgets, control wastage, and achieve GP targets without compromising quality.
• Collaboration - Work closely with front of house teams, site management, and the client to deliver a consistent and memorable food experience.
• Event Catering - Plan, execute, and oversee high volume catering for large scale events, ensuring exceptional quality and seamless service across all outlets.
• Multi Day Operations Management - Ensure kitchens and cafés run smoothly across a 7 day operational schedule, maintaining high standards and efficiency throughout the week.

Qualifications

• Proven track record as a Head Chef in a high volume, high quality environment.
• Experience within visitor attractions and contract catering is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to lead by example.
• Excellent organisational skills, especially during peak periods.
• Sound knowledge of food trends, allergens, and dietary requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve financial targets while maintaining high quality.
• Good IT and Microsoft Office skills.
• Passionate about food and hospitality with a strong customer focus.
• Adaptable and resilient in a fast paced, ever changing environment.
• Creative, commercially aware, and results driven.
• Committed to sustainability and responsible sourcing.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Restaurant Associates is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.